Seniors Say Farewell at East Granby High School

The graduation ceremony in East Granby High School's auditorium kept seniors, school faculty and attendees sheltered from the sweltering heat outside as the students officially completed their high school careers Wednesday night.

The 61 seniors are moving on to college, careers and job training. One student, Caroline Eastman, officially accepted a commission to the United States Coast Guard Academy during the ceremony.

In her introduction, __ principal Melissa Bavaro-Grande reminded the seniors that graduation is the final step in their public education journey.

"High school graduation is the culmination of 13 years of education," she said.

East Granby Superintendent Christine Mahoney centered her remarks on the subject of courage. She noted that courage is more than an attempt to solve every problem.

"Courage is not always a fight response," she said. "Courage can be quiet."

Mahoney said one of the most important applications of courage is relinquishing concern or worry over things beyond one's control when appropriate.

"The secret to surviving is knowing what to throw away and what to keep," she said.

Senior class vice president Bryan Hayes presented most of his welcome address in rhyme before expressing his excitement towards what the future holds for his classmates.

"I know we will make East Granby proud," he said. "I can't wait to see the type of impact our tiny class will have on the world."

The ceremony also featured verbal essays from salutatorian Caroline Roohr and co-valedictorians Shannon Dempsey and Dylan MarcAurele, whose grade point averages were identical to the 10th decimal place.

Dempsey focused her address on what she will remember and take with her moving on from high school, as well as the teachers that made a significant impact on her high school career.

“We have been provided with all the tools to succeed no matter what we do with our lives,” Dempsey said.

MarcAurele’s speech was lighthearted, drawing comparisons to popular musician Kesha and adding some humor to the emotional situation while also providing some advice.

“Make sure you do something that makes you proud at the end of the day,” he said.

A speech from retiring guidance counselor Stephen Matson, a 35-year veteran of East Granby High School, closed out the series of speakers. Following a musical interlude, the seniors received their diplomas, moved their tassels and began the next phase of their lives.

“Congratulations class of 2012!” Dempsey said. “We did it!”